Christopher Breen of Playlist posted the final entry of his Zune Diary. Beyond the technical problems that can be expected in a 1.0 product, what really stands out for me is the absolute contempt that Microsoft has for its consumers:

• The Universal Music Group Tax. Universal assumes that all MP3 players are used by music-stealing thieves. Therefore, they are entitled to tax MP3 player sales. Microsoft gives in to this argument and gives Universal $1 per player sold. What is the most objectionable aspect of this transaction? Is it the contempt Universal has for music-lovers or is it MS charging you extra for your brown Zune, assuming you will operate the legally-sold device in an illegal manner?
• Welcome to the (Limited) Social. What a brilliant idea this is, the ability to share content easily and wirelessly between Zunes. Too bad that there are onerous limitations on sharing – you can only play a shared song three times. And music you may have created is also limited by this restriction – the RIAA reaching into the lives of consumers to limit their creative behavior.
• The Problematic Install. MS has had years to perfect it’s iPod-killer. Couldn’t they came up with a software install process that wasn’t an unholy mess? And one that didn’t feature some, uh, questionable imagery?

The contrast with the iPod is telling.  With its focus on simplicity and ease of use, Apple has designed a product with consumers in mind.  The Zune is crippled by compromises made to appease the music industry.  Consumers will decide which product they prefer.  My money is on the iPod.